If you’re a foreign national who wants to work in Kuwait, you’ll need to obtain the appropriate work permit first. The good news is, if you have a Kuwaiti resident spouse, you may be eligible for an Article 20 visa Kuwait, allowing you to reside and work in the country.

This guide will provide you with all the necessary information you need to know about obtaining an Article 20 visa in Kuwait, including the eligibility criteria, application process, and required documents.

Key Takeaways

• The Article 20 visa Kuwait is for foreign nationals who are married to a Kuwaiti resident and want to live and work in Kuwait.
• The applicant is required to submit several documents, including a marriage certificate, passport or national ID card, and an application form.
• After submitting the application, the applicant needs to undergo a medical check-up and obtain a security clearance certificate.
• The visa processing time can vary, with an average of 2 to 6 weeks.
• Once the visa is granted, the applicant will have to obtain a work permit and a civil ID card to start working in Kuwait.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for an Article 20 visa in Kuwait, you must be married to a Kuwaiti resident. There is no minimum period of marriage required, but you will need to provide a certified copy of your marriage certificate as part of your application.

Application Process

The first step in the application process is to obtain an application form from the Ministry of Interior’s website or the immigration office. The form must be completed in Arabic and signed by the sponsor, who is the Kuwaiti spouse.

In addition to the application form and marriage certificate, you’ll also need to provide a copy of your passport or national ID card, along with passport-sized photos. You may also be required to provide other documents, such as a certificate of good conduct or a copy of your spouse’s civil ID card.

After submitting your application, you will be required to undergo a medical check-up at a Kuwaiti government-approved medical center. The check-up will include a blood test, a chest X-ray, and a medical examination. You will also need to obtain a security clearance certificate from the Ministry of Interior.

Visa Processing Time

The processing time for an Article 20 visa in Kuwait can vary, depending on the applicant’s nationality and other factors. On average, it takes around 2 to 6 weeks to process an application. You can check the status of your application online through the Ministry of Interior’s website.

Work Permit and Civil ID Card

Once your Article 20 visa is granted, you will need to obtain a work permit to start working in Kuwait. You will also need to obtain a civil ID card, which is a requirement for all residents of Kuwait.

To obtain a work permit, you’ll need to provide your employer with a copy of your Article 20 visa along with other documents, such as your educational qualifications and work experience. Your employer will then apply for your work permit on your behalf.

To obtain a civil ID card, you’ll need to provide your passport and residency permit to the Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI). The PACI will take your fingerprints and a photograph, and the card will be issued within a few days.

Conclusion

Getting an Article 20 visa Kuwait can be a lengthy process, but it is essential if you want to work and reside in the country. Make sure you have all the necessary documents and undergo the required medical and security clearance checks to ensure your application is successful.

Remember, once your visa is granted, you’ll need to obtain a work permit and a civil ID card to start working and living in Kuwait. With the right preparation and patience, you’ll be able to navigate the process successfully.

FAQs

Q: Can I apply for an Article 20 visa Kuwait if I am not married to a Kuwaiti resident?

A: No, you must be married to a Kuwaiti resident to be eligible for an Article 20 visa in Kuwait. If you’re not married to a Kuwaiti resident, there may be other visa options available to you.

Q: How long does it take to obtain a work permit in Kuwait?

A: The processing time for a work permit can vary, but it usually takes around 7 to 10 working days. Make sure you have all the necessary documents and your employer applies for your work permit promptly to avoid any delays.

Q: Do I need a work permit to work in Kuwait?

A: Yes, you must have a work permit to work in Kuwait. You’ll need to obtain an Article 20 visa first and then apply for a work permit through your employer.